Dental implants are an effective solution for replacing missing teeth. While the success rate of dental implant procedures is high, implant failure can occur. Luckily, implant failure is rare. But there are ways that you can prevent it. If you do have dental implant failure, there are ways to treat this issue.
What is Dental Implant Failure?
Dental implant failure refers to the inability of an implant to integrate with the surrounding bone properly. Implant failure can occur due to various reasons. This can lead to discomfort or poor function of the implant. You may suffer other issues without talking to your dentist.
Unraveling the Potential Factors
Poor Integration: The dental implant needs to fuse with the jawbone. Insufficient or slow integration can result in implant failure. Factors that may affect this process include poor bone quality, smoking, uncontrolled diabetes, and certain medications.
Infection: Bacterial infections around the implant site can cause inflammation and tissue damage. If left untreated, infection can lead to implant failure. Also, infections can become severe and even deadly in the mouth.
Overloading: Excessive or premature pressure on the implant during the healing process can increase the risk of failure. This can occur due to inadequate healing time or poor implant placement.
Poor Oral Hygiene: Poor oral hygiene practices, such as inadequate brushing and flossing around the implant area, can contribute to implant failure.
Preventing Dental Implant Failure
To prevent dental implant failure, there are several things that you and your dentist can do before your surgery.
Exam and Planning: Your dentist will perform a complete evaluation before your surgery. This includes assessing bone density, oral health, and overall suitability for the procedure. Your health is a concern for surgery. This is because you need to be healthy for anesthesia and recovery.
Healthy Lifestyle Habits: Good oral hygiene, quitting smoking, and managing chronic health conditions can enhance the success rate of dental implants. For example, you will need to make sure that your diabetes is under control before moving forward.
Proper Implant Placement: Precise implant placement by an experienced dentist contributes to the long-term success of dental implants. Follow-up exams and regular check-ups are vital to monitor the implant’s stability and ensure proper healing. They will notice if there is something wrong with your implant.
Addressing Implant Issues
Implant Removal: In cases where implant failure has occurred, your dentist may need to remove the implant. After proper healing, they can place a new implant. Then, they can take into account the factors that led to the initial failure.
Bone Grafting: Poor bone quality may require bone grafting to alter the jawbone before implant placement. This helps provide a solid foundation for the new implant and promotes integration.
Infection Treatment: Treating infections may involve professional cleaning. In severe cases, you may need surgical intervention. Early detection and timely treatment are crucial to prevent further damage and potential implant failure.
While you can have dental implant failure, you can reduce your risks. You and your dentist have the ability to succeed with implants. With proper care, dental implants can restore your smile and improve your quality of life for years to come.